WHAT A BIG COMMITMENT MAKE BY RORY MCILROY……………….
PGA Tour stalwart Rory McIlroy is set to make his debut appearance at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans later this month, marking his first participation in the team-based PGA Tour event. Joining forces with his 2023 Ryder Cup teammate Shane Lowry, McIlroy aims to bolster his tournament schedule for 2024 in pursuit of breaking his major drought.
The tournament, scheduled for April 25-28, follows closely on the heels of McIlroy’s bid for a coveted green jacket at the Masters. Ahead of Augusta National, McIlroy is slated to compete in the Valero Texas Open, as confirmed on his official website.
Since 2017, the Zurich Classic of New Orleans has showcased a two-man team format, with Nick Hardy and Davis Riley defending their title this year. The addition of McIlroy to the lineup is sure to energize tournament organizers, as highlighted by Steve Worthy, CEO of the Fore!Kids Foundation, which oversees the event.
Worthy expressed excitement about the pairing of McIlroy and Lowry, noting their Ryder Cup experience and friendship as factors that will likely make them fan favorites.
Amidst McIlroy’s upcoming schedule, questions linger about his potential participation in the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links from April 18-21. Last year, McIlroy withdrew from the event following a disappointing performance at the Masters, a decision that reportedly impacted his Player Impact Program (PIP) bonus.
McIlroy’s absence from the Sentry Tournament of Champions earlier in the year reportedly cost him a significant portion of his PIP bonus. However, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan has discretion in such matters, leaving uncertainty about whether McIlroy was officially penalized.
In unrelated news, details regarding the rules, format, and launch date of TGL have finally been confirmed. Originally slated for a January launch, TGL was delayed due to storm damage to its Florida facility.
